Benitez: I like to win and to play good football

The Spanish tactician put pen to paper on a two-year deal last week and replaces Jose Mourinho who joined Real Madrid last month.

“Good day everyone, I would like to once again thank the club and also the fans who have welcomed me with great affection,” Benitez said in Italian.

“Leaving Liverpool has been tough, many players, Gerrard included, have wished me good luck. This is the perfect opportunity for my career.

“We must win the trophies that we are missing. I already know that the month of August will have to be prepared well because there isn't much time available to us.

“I prefer to have a lot of quality. We want to stay being the best team.”

Inevitably, it wasn't too long before Rafa was asked to compare himself with Mourinho.

“He has done a great job. I am different. I like to win and to play good football. If I am here I think that it's because I am intelligent.”

Benitez was then asked about his plans for the transfer market, which might include a bid for Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano.

“We are analysing the situation. We can always improve. Mascherano isn't our player. I prefer to dribble this question.”

The former Valencia Coach also gave his first impressions of Italy.

“You breathe football. Even in Sardinia, when I was on holiday, I had journalists who waited for me outside of the hotel. I like it. I am at a great club. We will do our best.

“Inter had an almost perfect year. Now it's up to me to maintain this winning mentality. The Italian mentality is similar to the Spanish; if we win it will certainly be easier to work.

“We have many top class players who are at the World Cup and I wish them well. As for the market, I still have to speak with the club. Maicon is a very strong player and I am happy that he is at Inter.”

Finally, Rafa was asked if he would stick with the 4-2-3-1 formation that proved so successful under Mourinho.

“The team is the most important thing. Changing everything wouldn't be intelligent. If something worked well, we can continue with it.”